THE first Comets sessions in Suffolk will be held at The New Croft in Haverhill.

Comets is a recreational, pan-disability football programme run by The FA, focusing on playfulness and friendships, giving a fun and positive experience of football.

Two sessions will be held on a weekly basis by The New Croft Foundation starting from Tuesday, February 20th.

The sessions from 5pm-6pm – one will be for 5-11-year-olds and the other session will be for 12-14-year-olds – will be delivered by coaches Rhys Shulver and Lois Balfour.

Rhys, who is Football Development Officer with the Haverhill Community Sports Association, said: “The Comets programme here in Haverhill is providing many children with different disabilities the opportunity to play football and be part of the club/organisation.

“We want to ensure everyone has equal opportunities here when It comes to football. The sessions are devised for children to have fun in a safe and adaptable environment to suit the individual’s needs.”

Lois, who is Football Development Manager with HCSA and also Head of The New Croft Foundation, said: “We are so excited to be starting up the first Comets programme in Suffolk.

“SEN and Disability sessions has always been something we have been passionate about starting as it gives those young people the opportunity to access football in Haverhill and the local area.

“It’s one of many positive programmes we will be delivering and we are looking forward to be able to offer more over the next couple of months due to the building relationship The New Croft Foundation is having with the local community.”

Suffolk FA Inclusion Officer Kirsty Smith said: “The Comets programme has been a long time coming, but one that will be worth the wait.

“The FA have piloted these across the country over the past year, gaining real insight into how best to cater for children’s needs within this space and make the sessions as inclusive as possible.

“Haverhill were one of the providers involved in the national pilot, so it’s great to see they are now in a position and ready to launch weekly sessions.”

 To register your child’s interest, please email: rhysshulver@thenewcroft.co.uk